Love In The Little Ways

Whether you are working a minimum wage to make ends meet, between jobs while wishing your career would start, or haunted by mounds of student debt, lack of money often becomes a pesky thing. You cover shifts at work, budget, and save every penny, yet your coffee orders slowly go from a venti with extra whip to tall, herbal teas.

However, true love and affection cannot be monetized. In the midst of daily living, you can still shine the light of God’s love into the people around you, despite the thinness of your wallet.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. -Matthew 5:14-16 NIV

Here are nine little ways to show love to those around you:

Custom playlist: Is there anything more touching than a beautiful song? Give that gift to a friend using a music service, such as Spotify, to create a playlist that you know will make them smile. It is a gift that will bring joy to long commutes and exhausting homework sessions.

Note for a stranger: The people you haven't met need just as much love as those that you are already close to. Write a kind note sharing an encouraging verse, such as Psalm 46:1, and a prayer for their day; share about God’s love and remind them of hope in the midst of darkness. Leave this little note in a place where someone can find it: a park bench or tucked into a library book. Who knows how much of a difference your words could make?

Bible study: We all need more time in God’s Word to refresh our souls. Host a little Bible study tea party with your friends to share that experience. It doesn't have to be elaborate; store bought cookies, Lipton, Scripture, and love are all you need to make this a success. For added fun, turn it into a picnic at a beautiful park. Not sure what to study? Here’s a fantastic study series on Ruth that you can use or get ideas from.

Pay it forward: This one is an oldie but a goodie; pay for the coffee of the person behind you. A simple gesture like this can not only brighten someone’s day, but also may inspire them to share the kindness by paying for the person behind them. One of the longest coffee kindness chains stretched for 400 people!

Visit a nursing home: At the end of your life when you sense that the story is almost over, the loneliness can become unbearable. Share hope with those struggling through this by visiting or volunteering at a nursing home. These people have lived through many experiences and have a lot to share. Take the time to listen because sometimes simply being present is the most powerful gift of love.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak. -James 1:19a NIV

Donate clothes: We all have items hanging in our closet that we haven't worn in forever. Put them to good use be giving them to those in need. Donate to a nationwide charity like Goodwill or to a local ministry that helps refugees or the poor. If the local ministry also needs volunteers as well as donations, you have an even better opportunity to shine His love!

Parking meter: There are few things as frustrating as coming back to your car late from a meeting and finding you got a parking ticket. Start carrying around some quarters with you so that when your see a meter running low, you can give them a few extra minutes and save them from a ticket.